(Photo: Getty Images)
The wait is over: Ashley Jensen has been announced as the new star of Shetland, replacing departing lead actor Douglas Henshall. You can look for the forthcoming season over at BritBox in the U.S. 
The BBC shared the exciting news in a media release confirming that Jensen, known for her roles in Extras and Agatha Raisin, will take over as lead detective in the show's eighth season. She'll join existing cast member Alison O’Donnell, who plays DS Alison 'Tosh' McIntosh. Jensen's character DI Ruth Calder is described as "a native Shetlander who returns to the isles after 20 years working for the Met in London."
Henshall, who has led Shetland since its launch as DI Jimmy Perez, will bow out during the upcoming seventh season. He announced his decision to leave back in July.
Jensen, who hails from Annan in South West Scotland, said of her new role: "I am absolutely thrilled to be joining Shetland as DI Ruth Calder. It’s such a hugely successful show and I am aware I have very big boots to fill since the departure of DI Perez, who was very much loved by fans of the show."
“There will be a different dynamic with Ruth amongst the regular characters and a few more new interesting characters to enjoy," she added. "However the integrity of the show and the world that has been created will remain very much in the same tone as the last seven seasons. It's a real privilege to be asked to lead this show into a new chapter. I can’t wait to be working in Scotland again. I have missed it!"
In the meantime, you can catch Jensen in another murder-mystery series, Acorn TV's Agatha Raisin. You can also check out our recent feature on reasons why can’t get enough of Douglas Henshall.

Are you excited to see Ashley Jensen in Shetland?